Texas A&M University Legislative Relations Presented by: Logan Nichols Alex Dover Kate PutmanMarshall Bowen COSGA 2010 Workshop

Mission Statement The Legislative Relations Commission exists to effectively communicate the needs of Texas A&M University students to elected officials and policymakers on every governmental level. Through an emphasis on personal, professional, and team development, LR is committed to serving students with integrity and excellence

Lobbying Basics Set Your Agenda –Identify 3-5 key issues –Identify your resources (Administration, Alumni, on-campus Student Groups) –Work with your Student Senate to get feedback –Do’s and Don’ts

Research Research Briefs –Putting together briefs –Components of a good research packet –What to do during an off year –Examples on

Research Briefs

Lobbying Basics Preparation Before Meetings –Talking Points –Schedule Meetings Identify key members and committees –Gather Member Bios –Student Lobbying Profiles

Lobbying Basics Student Lobbying Teams –2-3 Members per meeting –Delegate talking points –Be Flexible! –Thank you notes and follow-up contact and information

Lobbying Basics Testifying at Hearings –Arranging hearings –What to say and how to say it –1-2 students testify –Other students may be present and can show support by filling out testimony cards

Lobbying Basics Build Coalitions Between Schools –Texas Student Association –Orange and Maroon Legislative Day –Texas Summit on Higher Education –Issue Based Coalitions

Engaging the Student Body –Bring staffers and legislators to campus –Online legislative tracking systems –Lobbying workshops –Student issues forums –Hosting candidate meet and greets What works for you? Lobbying Basics

Communication How to Use the Media –Newsletters –Editorial Opinions –Letters to Editors –Maintain relationship with student newspaper –Update website regularly

TAMU LR Website

2010 Summit on Higher Education April 9-10, 2010 Designed to be an opportunity for student leaders and professionals to come together and foster thought and action with issues in the upcoming Legislative Session.

Contact LR Director Logan Nichols